Biography of Vaibhav Makhija: Founder and CEO of What's Up Wellness-Entrepreneur
Biography of Vaibhav Makhija:
Vaibhav Makhija is an inspiring entrepreneur and the
co-founder of What's Up Wellness, a dynamic startup dedicated to making
wellness accessible and enjoyable through innovative gummy supplements. His
journey reflects a blend of academic excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, and a
commitment to improving the health and well-being of consumers.
Academic Background
Vaibhav pursued his education at the DAV Institute of
Engineering and Technology in Jalandhar, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in
Computer Engineering from 2012 to 2016. His time at university was marked by
significant achievements, including his participation in the chess team, where
he won a gold medal in the PTU Inter College Chess Tournament in 2012 and a
bronze the following year. Additionally, Vaibhav excelled academically,
achieving a remarkable 99.01 percentile in the CAT 2015 examination.
Early Education and Achievements
Prior to his engineering studies, Vaibhav completed his high
school education at St. Joseph's Convent School in Pathankot, where he achieved
a stellar grade of 9.4. He was also recognized for his exceptional
intelligence, having cleared both the state and national levels of the National
Talent Search Examination (NTSE), standing out among 95 candidates in Punjab.
Biography of Vaibhav Makhija: Founder and CEO of What's Up Wellness-Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/wellness supplement industry/Vaibhav M story
The Birth of What's Up Wellness
In April 2021, Vaibhav co-founded What's Up Wellness, aiming
to transform the wellness industry by making health supplements fun and
accessible. The company's mission is to encourage individuals to prioritize
their well-being without the conventional hassles associated with traditional
supplements. By focusing on enjoyable, easy-to-consume products, Vaibhav sought
to create a brand that resonates with the younger generation.
Product Offerings
What's Up Wellness specializes in delicious gummy
supplements designed to support hair, skin, and nail health. Their flagship
products include biotin gummies and multivitamins that are formulated with
high-quality, scientifically-backed ingredients. The gummies contain beneficial
elements such as biotin, sea buckthorn, aloe vera, folic acid, and a blend of
essential vitamins, all aimed at enhancing overall wellness.
Quality and Sustainability
One of the standout features of What's Up Wellness is its
commitment to quality and sustainability. The gummies are cruelty-free, vegan,
and gluten-free, ensuring that they are suitable for a wide range of consumers.
Each product is triple-tested for quality and FSSAI approved, using natural
colors and flavors without any harmful side effects. This dedication to
excellence has built consumer trust and loyalty.
Initial Growth and Bootstrapping
The journey of What's Up Wellness began with bootstrapping,
allowing Vaibhav and his team to lay a solid foundation for their brand without
relying heavily on external funding. This initial phase helped them refine
their products and understand market demands before seeking outside investment.
Securing Funding
In 2022, Vaibhav's persistence paid off as What's Up
Wellness secured funding from angel investors. The brand gained significant
visibility when it appeared on Shark Tank India, where it successfully raised
₹60 lakhs for 4.76% equity, leading to a post-money valuation of ₹12.61 crore.
This investment from notable investors, including Anupam Mittal, Vineeta Singh,
and Aman Gupta, provided the resources necessary for further expansion and
product development.
Expanding Product Lines
With the funding secured, What's Up Wellness expanded its
product offerings to address various wellness needs. New gummies were
introduced for stress relief, improved sleep, and other health benefits,
catering to a broader audience. This diversification not only enhanced the
brand’s appeal but also positioned it as a comprehensive wellness solution for
consumers.
Recognition and Acclaim
Vaibhav’s innovative approach and the success of What's Up
Wellness have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, he was recognized in Forbes Asia's
30 Under 30 list in the Retail and E-commerce category, highlighting his
significant contributions to the health and wellness sector. This
acknowledgment reflects both his entrepreneurial journey and the impact of his
work on consumer health.
Market Strategy
Vaibhav understands that the wellness market is competitive,
and to stand out, What's Up Wellness must continuously innovate and engage with
its customers. The brand leverages digital marketing strategies and
direct-to-consumer sales models, enabling it to reach consumers directly and
gather feedback that informs future product development.
Commitment to Wellness Education
Beyond just selling products, Vaibhav is passionate about
promoting wellness education. What's Up Wellness aims to inform consumers about
the benefits of their ingredients and the importance of maintaining a healthy
lifestyle. This educational approach fosters a community of health-conscious
individuals who are empowered to make informed choices.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Vaibhav envisions What's Up Wellness becoming
a household name in the wellness industry. He aims to continue expanding the
product line and exploring new markets to reach more consumers. With a focus on
quality and customer satisfaction, he believes that the brand can significantly
impact people's lives by promoting health and wellness in a fun and enjoyable
manner.
Conclusion: A New Era of Wellness
Vaibhav Makhija's journey with What's Up Wellness is a
testament to the power of innovation and dedication in the entrepreneurial
landscape. By reimagining how supplements are consumed and focusing on quality
and sustainability, he has positioned his brand for success in the wellness
market. As he continues to lead What's Up Wellness, the future looks bright for
both the brand and the consumers it serves.
Timeline for Vaibhav Makhija and What's Up Wellness
2002-2012 - Vaibhav completes high school at St. Joseph's
Convent School, excelling academically.
2012-2016 - He earns a bachelor’s degree in Computer
Engineering from DAV Institute of Engineering and Technology.
2012 - Wins a gold medal in the PTU Inter College Chess
Tournament.
2015 - Achieves a 99.01 percentile in the CAT examination.
April 2021 - Co-founds What's Up Wellness to innovate in the
wellness supplement industry.
2022 - Secures funding from angel investors after appearing
on Shark Tank India, raising ₹60 lakhs.
2024 - Recognized in Forbes Asia's 30 Under 30 list for
contributions to retail and e-commerce.
Future Aspirations - Plans to expand product lines and reach
new markets in the wellness sector.
